The Hammers have signed 16-year-old goalkeeping giant Rihards Matrevics as an Academy Scholar.
Latvian Matrevics stands 6′ 7″ tall – and because he is not yet an adult, the deal remains subject to FIFA approval.
Speaking to WHUFC.com, the Latvian Under 17 international said: “I am really delighted to have a signed. I’ve worked hard for this, and it’s always nice to for that to be recognised.
“I’m really enjoying my football here in England so far. It’s quite different to life in Latvia where my friends and family are. It is sacrifice and at times it is tough, but I love it at West Ham.
“The Academy staff are excellent at helping me and the other boys settle in.
“I love training alongside Adrian and the other first team goalkeepers. It’s very different to the standard in Latvia.
“Out of the strikers Andy Carroll has definitely got the hardest shot. The power he gets is unbelievable. I’ve saved a few of his shots; it’s always a great feeling when you make a save against a Premier League player of his quality.”
Asked about his personal goals, Metrevics added: “This season, I want to make my way into the U18s, see how I do there and maybe make a few appearances for the U21s.
“I made my international debut last year against Belarus. I did alright, it wasn’t my best game ever but hopefully there’ll be more to come.”
6’7″ at16,bloody hell he wont be able to get his head under the crossbar by 20,lol,he is a giant 😉
Should make 7 feet,let’s hope he is another for the future,just as Adrien finishes he will be the right age to take over,
Sleeping in a grow bag ?
Wow,that is one tall kid.6ft7 at 16yrs old.Should be a basketball player not a goalkeeper.